Christmas is coming!

Dr. Charlene Reid

YOUR DENTIST AND YOU

Christmas is coming, the geese are getting fat.

Please put a penny in the old man's hat.

If you haven't got a penny a ha' penny will do.

If you haven't got a ha' penny then God bless you.

Christmas is coming. And besides the geese, Bahamians are going to get fat this Christmas. We are going to get fat eating fruitcake, ham, turkey, stuffing, benny cake, rum cake (my mouth is watering as I write this), and all manner of Bahamian delicacies.

Don't get me wrong, I want you to eat, drink socialize and be merry this holiday season. I also want you to remember that in order to enjoy this every year, take care of your teeth. I know that I've preached on the subject over and over again. It's that important.

The Basics

It's important to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Most problems with teeth and gums can be prevented. Here's how:

* Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

* Floss between your teeth every day.

* Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning.

* Cut down on sugary foods and drinks.

* Don't smoke or chew tobacco.

Watch out

for plaque

Plaque (plak) is a sticky substance that forms on your teeth. When plaque stays on your teeth too long, it can lead to tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease. Cavities and gum disease are the main causes of tooth loss.

Follow these tips for a healthy, beautiful smile.

Brush your teeth

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste.

* Brush in circles and use up and down strokes.

* Take time to brush gently along the gum line.

* Don't forget to brush your tongue.

* Change your toothbrush at least every three months

Floss every day

Floss every day to remove plaque and food between teeth. Floss before you brush. Rinse your mouth with water after you floss.

Take Action!

Get regular check-ups at the dentist.

Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning. Get check-ups even if you have no natural teeth and have dentures. If you have problems with your teeth or mouth, see a dentist right away.

Eat healthy

Choose low–sugar snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and low–fat or non–fat cheese. Cut down on sugary soda and drinks that can lead to cavities.

Quit smoking

Using tobacco in any form (cigarettes, cigars, pipe, chewing tobacco) raises your risk for getting gum disease and oral (mouth) cancer.

Drink alcohol only in moderation.

Drinking a lot of alcohol can increase your risk for oral cancer. If you choose to drink, have only a moderate (limited) amount. Moderate means no more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.

Enjoy your Christmas and take care of your teeth I'm sure you don't want to ask Santa next year for two new ones.

Dr. Charlene E. Reid is a graduate of the University of Havana's Dental Faulty. She works at the Grand Bahama Health Service Dental Department and in private practice at Easy Dental Care in the Pioneer's Professional Plaza. Should you have any questions about this or any previous articles please feel free to contact her at 3527844 or at drcharlene-reid@aol.com.

© 2009 The Freeport News